Last week, Hackensack BOE Trustee Frances Cogelja refused to support a resolution “stand[ing] against racism and discrimination, and support[ing] anti-racism and the underrepresented." The next day, a dedicated teacher resigned, citing the Board's inability to reach unanimous agreement on the resolution as the last straw.

Hackensack educators shouldn't be the ones resigning. Cogelja should.

This isn't the first time Cogelja's stood against equality and the values of the Hackensack school district. Last year, over 1200 people called for her resignation after her hateful homophobic remarks came to light.

Instead, even after nearly every one of our county, state, and federal elected officials condemned her, the majority of our BOE refused to denounce her or pass a resolution stating their commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Tonight the Board of Education will engage in "a discussion of diversity and racism" via Zoom. Public comments will be accepted by calling (201) 646-7820 at the appropriate time during the meeting.

Frances Cogelja's words and actions continue to have real consequences for our students and staff. The Board must condemn her actions and request her resignation.